Tomorrow I will bid farewell to my twenties. Yes, that’s right I am turning the big 3-0. Frankly I can’t believe it. I am not sure I’ve been handling this approaching milestone birthday well as it completely freaks me out! I mean THIRTY! I remember thinking 30 was “like so totally old” when I was in my teens. Now here I am less than 24 hours away from no longer being a “twenty something.” The Friends clip below never fails to amuse me and now I understand the humor and freakout-ness of that episode LOL!
The husband has already turned 30 and I’ve celebrated several good friends turning 30 as well. Still, it seems surprising that it’s finally my turn. It’s one of those things that remind you that you really are a grown-up. It’s a reminder of how fast life can really pass you by. Growing up can be hard y’all.
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However, as I get closer to parting ways with my 29 year-old status, I am not feeling as freaked as I was. I still feel young! I still look young and continue to get carded on a regular basis. I’m also laughing at my teenage self that once considered 30 old. Really folks, 30 is basically the new 20! More importantly, I’ve also thought about everything that happened in my twenties. So many major life changing events. Of course like in everything, there were some sad moments, but the blessings and amazing memories I made this past decade of my life is incredible.
My twenties were filled with many milestones themselves. It’s truly incredible the difference between 20 and 29. I get emotional thinking about all the great things that happened over these last 10 years. I really am truly blessed. My favorite memories of my twenties can be summed up in the following list:
1. The first three years of my twenties was spent in college. During this time I celebrated my milestone 21st birthday (y’all know how that one goes). I also made some of my best and life-long friends during this period of time.
2. I went to Europe for a summer.
3. I ran my last competitive cross country and track race. I am still a runner, but it was emotional as I closed that chapter of my life goodbye after devoting so many years to running cross country and track competitively.
4. I graduated college and earned myself three degrees to go along with it! #humblebrag
5. I officially moved away from home and got my own place.
6. I got my first “adult” job and truly joined the workforce.
7. I married the love of my life!
8. I said goodbye to my apartment and became a homeowner.
9. I met even more friends through my “work life” that I’ve stayed close with as well.
10. I got my furbaby Winston, who continues to be my absolute pride and joy. I love my puppy boy!
11. I ran my very first half marathon. I was hooked after that and have continued to do more since!
12. I quit my first job, which had turned into a life sucking experience, and came out stronger!
13. I accepted a new job that I am still at and absolutely love!
14. I got addicted to Run Disney!
15. I became an Aunt. My nieces and nephews are some of my greatest joys.
16. I finally got to see WVU go to the final four in basketball. I also saw my Mountaineers capture Fiesta and Orange Bowl BCS victories in football.
17. After 20 years of awful, I got to see my beloved Pirates make the playoffs and end a horrid losing streak. The 2013 Wildcard game at PNC still makes me cry tears of joy when I think about it!
18. Best of all, through trips, family and friends, I’ve made more fabulous memories than I can count!
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| This! Life truly is a gift! So bring on 30! |
1. It’s okay if not everyone likes you. Sometimes people just don’t like you and that’s that. No need to stress or wonder why. Be yourself because your true friends are really the only ones that matter and they will love you because YOU ARE YOU.
2. To reiterate number one, BE YOURSELF and let your freak flag fly! I used to worry entirely too much what people thought of me and now I honestly don’t care. You will find true happiness when you embrace who you are.
3. It’s okay to spend Friday nights in wearing your sweats and watching Netflix. In fact, this can be an ideal time!
4. Life is messy. Instead of expecting perfection, learn to make the most of the mess!
5. It’s up to you to be happy. If you make an effort to be happy and smile more, you really will be happier!
6. Don’t compare yourself to others. Everyone’s life is different. Stop trying to “measure up” to your friends and embrace the blessings you have.
7. It’s fine that you might not be as skinny or “fit” as you were at 20. Normal even. Stop comparing yourself to your past you and live in the present! This is something I continue to tell myself now!
8. Sometimes you will “fail” or you will feel like a “failure.” But remember the sun will always shine the next day. Pick yourself up and try again. Never stop trying.
9. Don’t settle! You are worth it. Fight for what you want!
10. Most importantly cling to those who matter in your life. Your true friends and family will always be there for you, and those are the people that make life worth living!
So, as I approach my 30s I am still a little freaked. But, after I think of all the major life moments I’ve experienced these last 30 years, I look forward to making even more beautiful memories in this next chapter of my life. I am so thankful for life itself because it truly is a gift. I want to thank all of my friends and family for being part of my life. I love you all. More than you will ever know. Those of you reading this who might even be a stranger to me, thank you for being part of my life by supporting this blog.
I often find myself focusing on the future that I don’t just stop and look around to enjoy the present. As I start this next chapter I have one major goal: live in the moment! Thirty and FABULOUS! And don't worry, my humor continues to be as mature as ever:
